International Journal of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
Open Access

Abstract

Responsiveness of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure for Adults with ABI

Douglas Simmons C

Background: As survivors of traumatic brain-injury, stroke, and brain tumors live longer programs beyond traditional rehabilitation models must be developed. Community-based therapy programs have increased and evidence-based methods of addressing client needs and program development are critical for this population.

Purpose: Determine the responsiveness/validity of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure in determining occupational priorities for community-based program development for adults with acquired brain injury. Measure convergent validity of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure with the Community Integration Questionnaire and the Wisconsin HSS QOL Inventory.

Methods: Demographic, occupational performance/satisfaction, community integration and needs-based quality of life scores for 80 adults were descriptively examined. One-way analysis of variance of participants’ listed occupations was conducted. Correlational analyses explored community integration and quality of life variables associated with occupational performance and satisfaction.

Findings: Adults with acquired brain injury in community-based programming have robust occupational priorities. Leisure occupations are significantly more important than self-care and productive occupations (F(2,189)=13.59, p=0.01). Leisure occupations performed with others are significantly more important than quiet or active recreational occupations (F(2,316)=10.29, p=0.001). Convergent validity of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure and the Community Integration Questionnaire was weak, and no convergence was found with the Wisconsin HSS QOL Inventory.

Implications: The responsiveness of the Canadian Occupational Performance Measure in detecting significant differences in occupational priorities of adults with ABI provides therapist with critical valid data to guide both intervention and focused program development at the community level that addresses the unique needs of this population. Higher levels of occupational satisfaction could result in higher community integration and higher quality of life for this population.